MSW Programs in Illinois: Online & Campus
In Illinois, the landscape of Master of Social Work (MSW) programs is rich and diverse, offering aspiring social workers many opportunities for professional growth and specialization. With a focus on academic excellence, practical experience, and a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of communities across the state, MSW programs in Illinois stand as pillars of social advocacy and change. From urban centers to rural communities, these programs serve as incubators for tomorrow’s leaders in social work, empowering individuals to navigate complex societal challenges with compassion, innovation, and resilience. This article delves into the dynamic realm of MSW programs in Illinois, exploring their distinctive features, academic offerings, and their profound impact on shaping the future of social work practice in the state and beyond.
2025 Best MSW Programs in Illinois
Looking for the best MSW programs in Illinois? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked the top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student support. We focus on what matters most to future social workers. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our rankings guide you to the best choices. Learn how we picked these programs by checking out our rankings methodology.
Aurora University
Aurora, IL - Private 4-year - aurora.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Addictions - Online Learning - Visit Website
Aurora University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program empowers future social workers to make transformative impacts across diverse populations. With flexible learning options, including traditional and advanced standing tracks, students can choose from specialized concentrations like child welfare, school social work, and health care. The program provides comprehensive training in clinical practice, research, and policy, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in mental health, community services, and social advocacy. Students benefit from employment-based internships, expert faculty guidance, and accreditation that ensures exceptional educational quality.
- 60 semester hours traditional MSW
- 30 semester hours advanced standing
- Multiple track options
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall, spring, summer starts
- Online and on-campus options
- Employment-based internships
- Leads to state licensure
- Tracks include addictions, forensics
- Median salary $58,380
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Child Welfare - Online Learning - Visit Website
Aurora University's Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares passionate professionals to transform lives across diverse settings. With flexible fall, spring, and summer start options, students can choose from traditional and advanced standing tracks. The comprehensive program offers specialized concentrations like addictions, child welfare, and school social work, enabling graduates to pursue high-demand careers. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the MSW equips students with clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience through innovative internship opportunities.
- 60 semester hour traditional program
- 30 semester hour advanced standing
- Multiple track options available
- CSWE accredited program
- Online and on-campus options
- Two and three-year formats
- Employment-based internships
- Leads to state licensure
- Diverse career pathways
- Median salary $58,380 annually
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Aurora University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring social workers seeking to make meaningful community impacts. With flexible formats including traditional and advanced standing options, students can complete the program in one to three years. The curriculum provides robust training across specialized tracks like child welfare, school social work, and forensics, preparing graduates for diverse professional roles. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program ensures high-quality education and eligibility for state licensure exams.
- 60 credit traditional MSW program
- 30 credit advanced standing option
- Multiple specialization tracks
- CSWE accredited program
- Fall, spring, summer starts
- Online and on-campus options
- Employment-based internships
- Prepares for state licensure
- Tracks lead to external certifications
- Median salary $58,380 annually
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - luc.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Micro Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's online MSW program provides comprehensive social work training designed for aspiring professionals passionate about creating meaningful societal change. The flexible, fully online program offers two specialization tracks: Micro Practice and Leadership, Mezzo, & Macro Practice. Students can complete the traditional program in eight semesters or utilize the Advanced Standing option for BSW graduates. With a top-ranked curriculum, students develop critical skills in advocacy, clinical assessment, cultural competence, and leadership while preparing for diverse social work career opportunities.
- 49 credit hours total program
- Fully online synchronous format
- Two specialization tracks available
- Advanced Standing option
- 1,000 internship hours required
- Total estimated tuition: $55,370
- Fall semester start
- Part-time study only
- Application deadline: June 1
- Ranked #28 nationally
Master's - Master of Social Work (MSW)
Concentration: Leadership, Mezzo, & Macro Practice (LMMP) - Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Online Master of Social Work program offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring social work professionals. This comprehensive online degree prepares students to make meaningful societal impacts through advanced training across micro and macro practice domains. With a total program cost of $55,370, students can complete the traditional MSW in eight semesters, gaining 1,000 internship hours and specializing in areas like Advanced Clinical Practice or School Social Work. The program is nationally ranked #28 and provides cutting-edge instruction, close-to-home internships, and exceptional faculty committed to social justice.
- Online MSW, 49 credit hours
- Part-time program format
- Two specialization tracks
- 1,000 total internship hours
- Fall semester start
- Application deadline June 1
- Advanced Standing option
- Nationally ranked program
- Total tuition $55,370
- Two internship requirements
- Synchronous online classes
- CSWE accredited program
- Performance-based scholarships
- Prepare for LCSW exam
Master's - Master of Social Work Online Bilingual
Concentration: Migration Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Online Bilingual Master of Social Work (MSW) is a unique three-year, part-time program designed to prepare culturally competent social workers specializing in serving Latinx, immigrant, and refugee populations. With an estimated total tuition of $38,465, the program offers comprehensive training in clinical social work, focusing on addressing mental health challenges through culturally sensitive interventions. Students develop advanced skills in assessment, advocacy, and leadership while gaining practical experience through 1,000 hours of internships.
- Part-time online program
- 3-year traditional MSW
- 1,000 hours internship required
- Micro Practice Specialization
- Migration Studies track
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) focus
- Fall start term
- Application deadline June 1
- 49 credit hours
- Performance-based scholarships available
- Advanced Standing option
- Jesuit university program
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - uchicago.edu
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Chicago's Crown Family School offers a distinctive Master of Arts in Social Work that goes beyond traditional MSW programs. This comprehensive degree blends direct social work practice with policy development, interdisciplinary research, and social science theory. Students gain exceptional flexibility and broader career opportunities through an academically rigorous curriculum accredited since 1919. The program prepares professionals to create meaningful social change across diverse practice settings and complex societal challenges.
- AM degree equivalent to MSW
- Accredited since 1919
- Interdisciplinary social work approach
- Policy and research integration
- Flexible career preparation
- Top-ranked graduate program
- Advanced standing option available
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Chicago's Crown Family School offers a distinctive Master of Arts in Social Work that transcends traditional MSW programs. This comprehensive degree combines direct social work practice with policy development, interdisciplinary research, and social science theory. Designed for professionals seeking flexibility and depth, the program provides a robust educational foundation that prepares students for diverse career paths in social services, policy, and community engagement.
- Accredited since 1919
- AM degree equivalent to MSW
- Interdisciplinary social work approach
- Combines practice and policy
- Flexible career preparation
- Top-ranked graduate program
- Advanced standing option available
Master's - Master of Arts Program in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration
Concentration: Social Administration - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Chicago's Crown Family School offers a distinctive Master of Arts in Social Work that transcends traditional MSW programs. This comprehensive degree integrates direct social work practice with policy development, interdisciplinary research, and social science theory. Students gain unparalleled flexibility in career pathways, benefiting from a rigorous curriculum accredited since 1919. The program prepares professionals to address complex social challenges through innovative, research-driven approaches, positioning graduates as leaders in social work and policy transformation.
- Master of Arts (AM) degree
- Continuously accredited since 1919
- Interdisciplinary social work curriculum
- Combines practice and policy
- Top-ranked graduate social work program
- Broader educational foundation
- Flexible career preparation
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - csu.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chicago State University's Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares graduate students for advanced professional roles in human service organizations. With a family-centered and strengths-based curriculum, the program focuses on clinical practice, social policy analysis, and program management. Students develop leadership skills, cultural competency, and gain expertise in serving vulnerable populations while promoting social and economic justice. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and offers pathways for doctoral study and professional advancement.
- CSWE Accredited MSW Program
- Family-centered curriculum
- Clinical practice focus
- Serves marginalized populations
- Prepares for doctoral study
- Virtual informational sessions available
- Emphasizes social justice
Master's - Post MSW Professional Educator License
Concentration: School Social Work - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University offers a specialized Post-MSW Professional Educator License (PEL) with School Social Work Endorsement for experienced social work professionals. This online program prepares graduates to meet Illinois State Board of Education requirements, focusing on strength-based and family-centered principles. Designed for MSW holders with a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program provides comprehensive training in school social work, including policy, practice, and field practicum experiences. Ideal for social workers seeking to expand their career opportunities in educational settings.
- Online Post-MSW Professional Educator License
- CSWE Accredited Program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Application Deadline May 15th
- 300 Hours Field Practicum
- Asynchronous/Synchronous Courses
- Short-Term Approval Option
- Requires Previous MSW Degree
- School Social Work Endorsement
- Designed for Experienced Professionals
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - Public 4-Year - illinois.edu
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Practice - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive Master of Social Work (MSW) program designed to equip students with advanced professional skills. CSWE-accredited and available both on-campus and online, the program prepares social work professionals to work effectively with diverse populations, develop critical intervention strategies, and address complex social challenges. Students can choose between full-time and part-time options, with advanced standing available for those with relevant undergraduate backgrounds.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- Campus and online options
- Advanced Standing available
- Full and part-time enrollment
- Focuses on diverse populations
- Advanced clinical concentrations
- Research-oriented curriculum
- Leadership and social change track
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Leadership & Social Change - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work program designed for aspiring social work professionals. Students can choose between on-campus and fully online part-time formats, with options for Advanced Standing and traditional tracks. The program prepares graduates to work with diverse populations, develop advanced practice skills, and create meaningful social impact across various professional settings.
- CSWE-accredited MSW program
- On-campus and online options
- Advanced Standing available
- Part-time and full-time formats
- Advanced Clinical Concentration
- Leadership and Social Change Concentration
- Diverse populations focus
- Research and policy analysis
- Professional ethics training
Master's - iMSW Program
Concentration: Leadership and Social Change - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Unlock your potential in social work with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's dynamic MSW program. Designed for aspiring change-makers, this comprehensive degree offers flexible learning paths including campus and online options. Choose from Advanced Clinical or Leadership and Social Change concentrations, with program lengths ranging from 12 to 48 months. No GRE required, and accredited by CSWE, the program prepares students for impactful careers through hands-on internships and mentorship from innovative faculty. Estimated tuition ranges from $10,404 for residents to $18,204 for non-residents per semester.
- Three program options available
- No GRE required
- CSWE accredited since inception
- Two concentration tracks
- Campus and online formats
- Flexible program lengths
- Block internship placement
- Average class size 25 students
- Multiple financial aid options
- Internship sites across Illinois
MSW Degree Program Requirements/Eligibility in Illinois
Illinois Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements
If you want to become licensed as a social worker and don’t currently have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, you’ll need to enroll in a traditional MSW. These two-year programs offer a comprehensive curriculum, typically through an average of 60 credits. You’ll need the following to apply:
- Bachelor’s degree, typically in psychology or a related area, from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA requirement (typically around 3.0)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Resume or CV outlining relevant experience
- Completion of prerequisite courses (such as psychology, sociology, or human services)
- GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement)
- Interview (some programs may require an interview as part of the application process)
- Background check and/or fingerprinting
Illinois Advanced-Standing MSW Admissions Requirements
If you’re hoping to get your MSW in a year or less, check out the following advanced-standing MSW programs offered in Illinois:
- University of Illinois – visit site
- Illinois State University – visit site
- Northeastern Illinois University – visit site
Not everyone will be eligible for an advanced standing MSW; you’ll need all of the above requirements, a BSW, and a GPA of at least 3.5.
RELATED: Learn more about Social Work Salaries
Illinois MSW Program Tuition and Costs
If you’re looking for an MSW program in Illinois that suits your financial needs, you’ll likely have plenty of options to choose from. On average, you’ll find that these programs range from $287 to $877 per credit, depending on the program and whether you’re an Illinois resident. Check out the options below:
| School | Tuition (per credit hour) | Total Credits | Total Tuition |
| University of Illinois | $287 (Resident) $571 (Non-resident) | 56 | $16,072 (Resident) $31,978 (Non-resident) |
| Illinois State University | $422.57 (Resident) $877.72 (Non-resident) | 60 | $25,345 (Resident) $52,663 (Non-resident) |
| Northeastern Illinois University | $463.53 (Resident) $861.90 (Non-resident) | 60 | $27,811 (Resident) $51,714 (Non-resident) |
Are Online MSW Programs in Illinois as Good as Campus-Based?
Flexibility and convenience are often two words that describe online MSW programs, but for some, there are drawbacks. Take a look at the table below to see if enrolling in an MSW program is the right choice for you.
Traditional MSW vs. Online MSW Programs in Illinois
| Traditional MSW Programs | Online MSW Programs | |
| Format | In-person classes | Online classes with some in-person requirements |
| Flexibility | Limited scheduling options | More flexibility in scheduling, often part-time options |
| Location | Geographically limited | Accessible from anywhere with internet connectivity |
| Learning Environment | Classroom-based | Virtual classroom, discussion boards, and online resources |
| Networking | Local networking opportunities | Networking with students and professionals from diverse locations |
| Cost | Tuition, commuting, and relocation expenses | Generally lower tuition and flexibility to continue working |
| Hands-on Experience | Field placements and internships | Virtual or field placements and internships arranged in the student's local area |
Whether you choose a campus-based or online MSW program in Illinois, you should ensure that your degree program is properly accredited by a trusted agency such as the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Learn more about Social Work Degree Options:
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Graduate Certificate in Social Work
- Doctorate of Social Work (DSW)
Getting Your Illinois Social Work License
All social workers in Illinois must get licensed to work directly with clients. To learn what that entails, take a look at the specific social work licensure requirements in Illinois.
Popular Social Work Careers
Discover the specializations available to you within social work. These social work careers can help you work with diverse populations in a variety of environments.
School Social Worker
School social workers provide counseling, support, and advocacy for students facing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop student success strategies, provide crisis intervention, and facilitate support groups.
Healthcare Social Worker
Healthcare social workers assess patients' social, emotional, and practical needs. They provide counseling and support, coordinate care with healthcare providers, advocate for patients' rights, and connect patients and their families with community resources to ensure holistic and comprehensive care.
Court Social Worker
Court social workers assess the needs of individuals involved in court cases. They develop intervention plans, provide counseling and support, monitor progress in court-ordered programs, collaborate with legal professionals, and advocate for clients' best interests in legal proceedings.
List of MSW Degree Programs in Illinois
Chicago, IL
Adler University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Couple and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited program
- 60-credit hour master's degree
- Two-year full-time program
- Social justice focused curriculum
- 200-hour social justice practicum
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Multiple specialization options
- Optional sex therapy certificate
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited Ph.D. program
- 63-credit hour curriculum
- Full-time program, 4-7 years
- Located in Chicago campus
- Licensure eligible in Illinois
- Optional sex therapy certification
- Advanced clinical training
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy
Concentration: Certificate in Sex Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited Ph.D. program
- Advanced systemic therapy training
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Clinical and academic career preparation
- Optional sex therapy certificate
- Full-time 4-year program
- GPA requirement 3.25+
- Clinical master's degree required
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy
Concentration: Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program
- 4-year full-time doctoral program
- Clinical + research focus
- Optional sex therapy certificate
- Licensed faculty mentorship
- Social justice orientation
- Doctoral dissertation required
DePaul University
- Master's - Couples and Family Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Graduate-level counseling program
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Practical clinical experiences
- Comprehensive couples/family courses
- Professional supervision included
- Evidence-based intervention training
- CSL 556 Couples/Family Counseling course
The Chicago School at Chicago
- Master's - M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 60 credit hours total
- 300 clinical supervised hours
- Multiple campus locations
- No GRE required
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Interview required for admission
- Three recommendation letters needed
Evanston, IL
Northwestern University
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus options
- COAMFTE accredited program
- No GRE required
- Four annual cohort starts
- Integrative Systemic Therapy approach
- In-person clinical training
- Rolling admissions process
- Licensure-focused curriculum
- Doctorate - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- Online MFT Master's degree
- 24 months full-time completion
- COAMFTE accredited program
- No GRE required
- 400 hours clinical fieldwork
- 125 relational clinical hours
- 15 students per classroom
- Placement specialists assist
Springfield, IL
University of Illinois Springfield
- Master's - M.A. in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling
Concentration: Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 61 total required credit hours
- 4 specialized concentration courses
- Minimum 120 clinical service hours
- Community agency clinical placements
- Comprehensive core counseling curriculum
- Practicum and internship experiences
- Systemic counseling approach
- Multiple counseling theory courses
